Fall Activities in Lake Tahoe

September 21, 2018

With fall arriving this week, it is a beautiful time to visit Lake Tahoe; the aspen trees display hues of bright yellow, orange, and red, the summer crowds have diminished, and the temperatures begin to cool down… all reasons to head to the south shore and enjoy all the fall activities Lake Tahoe has to offer!

Hope Valley

Located within a 30-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe, Hope Valley is situated on the Highway 88 & 89 intersection. It is famed for its dramatic valley and mountain views, river fishing, and most importantly, its autumn colors. From mid-September to mid-October, visitors can take in nature’s spectacular transformation, along with some wildlife viewing. A true nature photographer’s paradise!

Hiking

As mentioned above, the temperatures cool down quite a bit by the end of September, giving way for some comfortable hiking conditions. The summer months can be a bit warm and muggy, forcing hikers to embark in the early or late hours of the day. During the fall, the cooler temperatures allow hiking at all hours of the daytime. The south shore is full of hiking trails of all skill levels feature views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and desolation wilderness.

Apple Hill

Within an hour’s drive from South Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada foothills lies Apple Hill. Adjacent to Placerville, it is an area that is often passed by on Highway 50 as visitors make their way from Sacramento to the south shore. This gorgeous area is filled with rolling hills, apple orchards, vineyards and wineries, and during the fall months, gorgeous autumn colors. Among the wineries and orchards lie country stores boasting fall produce like pumpkins, squash, and apples, of course! Enjoy wine tasting at one of the many wineries, picking apples in the orchards, and grabbing a few local treats like jams, ciders, pies, and sauces.

Kayaking

With less boats on the water causing wake, mild temperatures and weather, the lake offers calm conditions during the fall months, perfect for kayaking and taking in the scenery of the sapphire waters and mountain scenery. Kayak rentals can be found at most of the boat rental companies spread across the south shore.

Horseback Riding

A great way to experience some of Lake Tahoe’s breathtaking scenery is the way people did over a century ago, on horseback! For those looking to add a more rustic and “Wild West” adventure to their vacation, a guided horseback riding tour offers just that. With a couple of horse stable locations on opposite sides of the south shore (Zephyr Cove Stables and Camp Richardson Corral & Pack Station), you can choose which kind of Tahoe views you would like take in while riding your trusty steed.

Bike Riding

Bike riding is another way to enjoy the fall colors and foliage around Lake Tahoe. The south shore offers numerous trails for all skill levels and ages, from paved paths that wind through the forest and near beaches, to strenuous trails along ridges with magnificent views of the lake and surrounding mountains. If hauling your bike up to Tahoe isn’t practical, or you want to try out a new style of bike riding, there are many different bike rental shops that can be found around the south shore.

Start planning your Lake Tahoe Getaway today, and also take advantage of our lower nightly rates, plus an extra 10% off if you book online! Use discount code: Fall10

About Devon Fennessy

I am a long time local of South Lake Tahoe, CA, and have worked in the tourist industry (namely vacation rentals) since 1998. I have experience blogging for two of my own websites: a health blog, and culinary blog with recipes, how-to's, and kitchen must-haves. I also have an Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute in Las Vegas. I am currently the Communications Director for Buckingham Properties Lake Tahoe, located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, and love living the Tahoe mountain life!